Alexis Bespaloff's New Signet Book of Wine

by Alexis Bespaloff

Some recent "I was interested in reading a reference book from cover-to-cover (most of the wine references I have don't really lend themselves to that type of use); in addition, given that the book is 24 years old, I was looking for observations that struck me as either 1) incredibly prescient or 2) a dated reference to the times of the day". There were definitely several of the latter, the most glaring (and quite funny) example being the author's decrying of the state of American restaurant wine service generally in the mid-80's (it was, apparently, horrendous). Overall, an interesting read. Well-suited to the beginner, but worthwhile for those with more than a passing knowledge of the subject.(less) Evan Rated it 5 of 5 stars "This pocket paperback is the best single source of primary information about wine (what it is, how to make it, what types there are, history, vineyards, brands, etc.) that I've seen".

Mass Market Paperback

First published April 1, 1971

Reviews

[Bill Lindsay · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful book to learn about wines of different types and from various countries. Other kinds of alcohols are touched upon too. Very detailed in regions and how to treat the beverages and enjoy to the fullest. Sampling some of these is the most pleasurable part of reading this.

[Tgaylord · Rating 4 out of 5]

I can't say I learned that much from this book, as I already know a lot about wine. Rather, I was interested in reading a reference book from cover-to-cover (most of the wine references I have don't really lend themselves to that type of use); in addition, given that the book is 24 years old, I was looking for observations that struck me as either 1) incredibly prescient or 2) a dated reference to the times of the day.

There were definitely several of the latter, the most glaring (and quite funny) example being the author's decrying of the state of American restaurant wine service generally in the mid-80's (it was, apparently, horrendous).

Overall, an interesting read. Well-suited to the beginner, but worthwhile for those with more than a passing knowledge of the subject.

[Evan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This pocket paperback is the best single source of primary information about wine (what it is, how to make it, what types there are, history, vineyards, brands, etc.) that I've seen.